Elon Musk Launches New Political Party After Breakup with Trump
On Saturday, Musk made the surprise announcement via his social media platform X, declaring the formation of the "America Party". This move comes just a day after Trump signed a controversial domestic policy bill into law—a bill Musk had fiercely opposed.
“When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste & graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy,” Musk wrote. “Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom.”
From Political Ally to Political Rival
Until recently, Musk was one of Trump’s closest advisers and was even the largest individual donor to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. He played a key role in Trump’s administration through his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency, pushing for reduced government waste.
But tensions began to rise when Trump introduced what he called his “big beautiful bill”—a massive domestic spending plan. Musk criticized it sharply, warning that it would add trillions to the federal deficit and calling it a form of “debt slavery” for future generations.
Initially, the conflict seemed to settle down after Musk deleted several of his harshest posts and expressed regret. However, the feud reignited in recent days as the bill inched closer to becoming law.
When Trump signed the bill on Friday, Musk wasted no time in going public with his next move.
What Is the America Party?
Musk has not yet filed the legal paperwork with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to officially register the new party, but he insists it will be a “fiscally responsible alternative” to both Republicans and Democrats.
While Musk has not revealed full details of the America Party’s platform, he has made it clear that the party will focus on:
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Reducing government spending
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Promoting fiscal responsibility
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Empowering citizens with economic freedom
Despite sharing similar views with Trump on some social issues, Musk’s biggest criticism of the Republican party is its growing tendency to increase national debt.
America Party Plans to Compete in 2026 Midterms
Musk has ambitious plans for the 2026 midterm elections. He said the America Party would support selected candidates in a small number of House and Senate races, hoping to create a fresh voice in American politics.
“We’re not here to replace anyone overnight,” Musk said in a post. “We’re here to start something that matters.”
Musk’s decision reflects a growing sentiment among American voters who are dissatisfied with the current two-party system. Many polls have shown that a large number of Americans want a third-party alternative, though history has shown that starting a new party comes with serious challenges.
Can Musk Succeed Where Others Failed?
The U.S. political system has been dominated by two parties—Democrats and Republicans—for over a century. Other attempts to launch a third party, such as billionaire Ross Perot’s run in 1992, gained attention but ultimately failed to win any states.
Experts warn that forming a viable third party is difficult due to legal hurdles, limited media coverage, and voter hesitation. Still, Musk’s massive resources, popularity, and influence through companies like Tesla and SpaceX may give him an edge others lacked.
Trump Responds to Musk’s Breakaway
Trump didn’t hold back in his response. Earlier this week, he hinted that the government could reconsider major contracts with Musk’s companies, potentially threatening billions in federal deals. He also slammed the Department of Government Efficiency, calling it a “monster” that may “go back and eat Elon.”
The tensions between the two powerful figures have now escalated into a full-blown political rivalry, potentially reshaping the American political landscape in 2025 and beyond.